Fighting Phone Addiction: A Personal Journey
Thursday, 2026/07/16163 words3 minutes2367 reads
Marios, a personal trainer, spends up to 14 hours daily on his phone, mainly on Instagram. He describes it as carrying his own drug dealer in his pocket. The constant notifications and flashing lights create an overpowering urge to check his device.
Now Marios is taking a 12-session private therapy course to address his compulsion, which he believes stems from loneliness. He's not alone in this struggle. According to a recent Deloitte survey of 1,000 adults, 70% said they spend too much time on their phones.
Experts explain that phones trigger our brain's reward system. When we receive messages or likes, our brains release dopamine, a chemical that makes us feel good. Over time, some people need this hit constantly, causing hours of their lives to disappear into the online world.
Therapists recommend analyzing your behavior and finding alternative activities when you feel the urge to check your phone. Marios remains hopeful that therapy will help him regain control and enjoy life again.
